Frequently asked questions

Roy accepts a limited number of painting commissions each year. Commissions are divided into two main categories: • Private Fine Art Commissions (for collectors and personal spaces) • Commercial Art Commissions (for brands, publications, and companies) Each project is treated as an original artwork developed through discussion, references, and concept planning.

Private commissions are created for collectors, homes, and personal collections. Roy accepts a range of fine art commissions that are developed as original paintings tailored to the collector’s vision, space, and story. Portrait Commissions Roy creates custom portrait paintings of individuals, couples, families, pets, or historical figures. Portraits may be developed from reference photographs or through conceptual direction discussed with the client. The aim of a portrait commission is not simply to achieve absolute likeness but to capture the psychological presence, personality, and emotional character of the subject. Portrait commissions are often requested for: • Family portraits • Pet portraits • Personal legacy pieces • Gifts and commemorative artworks • Collector commissions Each portrait is approached as a unique artwork rather than a reproduction, ensuring that the final painting reflects both the subject and the artistic interpretation. To achieve the best results, high-quality reference images are essential. Factors such as lighting, composition, angle, and background play an important role in the final painting. In many cases, Roy prefers to photograph the subject personally to ensure the reference material meets the artistic requirements of the work. If necessary, a professional photographer may also be commissioned to capture suitable reference images. Roy works primarily from thier studio in Nova Scotia, Canada, where the painting is developed over time in a controlled studio environment. However, for certain commissions, Roy may travel to photograph the subject or gather references if the project requires it. Travel and related expenses are typically arranged and covered by the client when on-location work is requested. Landscape & Architectural Commissions Landscape paintings can be commissioned to represent places of personal meaning or environments of visual significance. Examples include: • meaningful locations • hometown landscapes • travel memories • architectural environments • interior spaces • symbolic or imagined environments Roy also collaborates with architects, interior designers, and property developers to create artworks designed specifically for residential or commercial spaces. These paintings are often commissioned for: • private homes • offices and studios • hotel interiors • showrooms and commercial environments Each work is developed with careful attention to scale, atmosphere, and the architectural context of the space in which it will be displayed. Wildlife Commissions Wildlife paintings focus on animals rendered with realism, atmosphere, and narrative presence. These commissions are often requested by: • wildlife collectors • nature enthusiasts • conservation supporters • interior designers seeking statement artwork Wildlife pieces can range from intimate studies to large dramatic compositions, depending on the scale and setting of the artwork. Mythological & Symbolic Commissions Roy also accepts commissions inspired by mythology, folklore, and symbolic narratives. These works may draw inspiration from traditions such as: • Greek mythology • Indian mythology • Norse mythology • historical legends and epic narratives • symbolic or archetypal storytelling Mythological commissions are often requested by collectors who appreciate narrative-driven artworks that combine symbolism, history, and imagination. Paintings may range from figurative interpretations of mythological characters to conceptual compositions inspired by ancient stories and archetypes. Conceptual & Narrative Commissions Roy also accepts a limited number of conceptual and narrative commissions for collectors interested in artworks that explore ideas, symbolism, and contemporary themes. These works often move beyond traditional portraiture or landscape painting and instead focus on visual storytelling and conceptual imagery. Roy’s conceptual practice frequently explores themes such as: • modern psychology • power and authority • identity and social behaviour • mythological symbolism • the relationship between humans, animals, and systems of control These paintings are developed through discussion with the collector, where an idea, theme, or question becomes the starting point for the artwork. The final composition is designed to create a thought-provoking visual narrative, rather than simply depicting a subject. Conceptual commissions are typically created for: • private collectors • galleries and exhibitions • cultural institutions • collectors interested in contemporary narrative art Because these works involve deeper conceptual development, they are often created on larger canvases and require extended studio time.

Commercial Art Commissions Roy collaborates with brands, creative professionals, publishers, filmmakers, and organizations to develop original artworks for commercial and public-facing projects. These commissions bring together fine art practice, visual storytelling, and conceptual imagery, allowing companies and creative teams to communicate ideas through distinctive and memorable artwork. Commercial projects may include a wide range of applications, such as: • Book cover artwork for authors and publishing houses • Album cover artwork and visual identity pieces for musicians and record labels • Editorial illustrations for magazines, journals, and publications • Product packaging and label artwork • Marketing and advertising campaign visuals • Brand storytelling artwork used across digital or print platforms • Film poster artwork and cinematic key visuals • Concept artwork or character portraits for film and visual media projects • Large-scale paintings for corporate offices, showrooms, hotels, or commercial interiors • Custom artworks created in collaboration with architects and interior designers • Limited-edition artworks developed for brand collaborations Each commercial project is developed through close collaboration with the client or creative team. The goal is to ensure that the artwork aligns with the brand’s identity, message, audience, and visual language, while maintaining the integrity of the artist’s practice. Roy’s background in figurative and conceptual painting allows commercial projects to go beyond standard illustration, creating artworks that feel distinctive, atmospheric, and conceptually strong. Depending on the nature of the project, commissions may be developed in collaboration with creative directors, marketing teams, publishers, filmmakers, designers, or architects. Because commercial artwork is intended for public use, usage rights, reproduction permissions, and licensing terms are discussed individually for each project. These terms depend on the scale of distribution, duration of use, and the platforms on which the artwork will appear. Clients interested in commissioning commercial artwork are encouraged to contact us with details about the project, timeline, and intended usage, so the scope and direction of the commission can be discussed.

Each commissioned painting is developed through a carefully structured process to ensure that the final artwork reflects both the collector’s vision and the integrity of Roy’s studio practice. Roy accepts a limited number of commissions each year so that every project receives the time, attention, and conceptual development required for a meaningful work of art. Step 1 — Initial Inquiry To begin the commission process, clients are invited to send an email inquiry to: hiroycanada@gmail.com In your email, please include the following information: • the type of painting you would like to commission • preferred size or approximate scale of the artwork • reference images (if available) • the intended location of the artwork (home, office, publication, etc.) • any relevant background or story connected to the project • your desired timeline for completion Providing these details helps the studio understand the scope, context, and purpose of the commission before moving forward with the consultation and concept development stages. Step 2 — Concept Consultation After reviewing the inquiry, Roy discusses the project with the client to explore the artistic direction of the work. This stage may involve discussion of: • conceptual ideas or narrative themes • composition possibilities • scale and format • reference photography • estimated timeline The goal of this stage is to establish a clear artistic vision for the commission. Step 3 — Reference Photography High-quality reference images are essential for the success of a painting. In many cases Roy prefers to photograph the subject personally, ensuring that lighting, composition, angle, and background are suitable for the final artwork. If required, a professional photographer may be commissioned to create appropriate reference images. Roy primarily works from his studio in Nova Scotia, Canada, but for certain projects he may travel to photograph subjects on location when necessary. Travel and related expenses are typically arranged by the client. Step 4 — Preliminary Study Before the final painting begins, Roy may prepare a small compositional study or sketch to explore the structure and visual direction of the work. This preliminary study helps communicate: • the overall composition • positioning of the subject • lighting and atmosphere • visual balance of the painting At this stage, any adjustments to the composition can be discussed and refined before the final painting process begins. This ensures clarity and alignment between the artist and the client before the artwork enters the main studio phase. Step 5 — Commission Confirmation Once the concept and composition are approved, the commission is formally confirmed with a 50% deposit. This secures the project within Roy’s studio schedule and allows the painting process to begin. Step 6 — Studio Creation The painting is then developed in Roy’s studio. During this stage, the artwork evolves gradually as colour, form, and detail are refined. Because each painting is an original work of art, the final interpretation remains part of Roy’s artistic process. For larger projects, selected progress updates may be shared during the creation phase. Step 7 — Process Documentation For selected commissions, Roy may provide curated process documentation as part of the project. This may include: • studio photographs • selected progress images • short video excerpts • time-lapse documentation • a written artist note reflecting the development of the work The level of documentation varies depending on the scale and nature of the commission. For major works or legacy pieces, a more extensive record of the painting’s development may be arranged upon request. Step 8 — Completion & Delivery Once the painting is completed, the client is notified and the final balance becomes due. The artwork is then: • professionally prepared for collection • carefully packaged for shipping • or delivered depending on the arrangement International shipping can be arranged when required. Each commissioned artwork is accompanied by documentation of authenticity.

The value of a commissioned painting varies depending on several factors, including the scale of the artwork, conceptual development, level of detail, reference preparation, and the time required in the studio. Because each painting is created as an original work, pricing is determined individually once the scope and direction of the commission have been discussed. Roy accepts painting commissions starting from $3,000 for smaller works. Mid-scale and large studio paintings typically range between $8,000 and $40,000, depending on complexity and size. Major works, large-scale paintings, or extensive conceptual commissions may range from $50,000 to $100,000 or more. Commercial projects, public installations, and works requiring licensing or reproduction rights are quoted separately based on the scope of use. Because Roy accepts a limited number of commissions each year, projects are selected based on artistic interest, scale, and studio availability. Collectors and organisations are encouraged to submit a commission inquiry so that we can review the proposal and provide a detailed quotation.

Commissioned artworks are developed through collaboration between the collector and the artist. While the client may provide direction, references, or thematic ideas, the final composition and artistic interpretation remain part of Roy’s creative practice. This approach ensures that each commission retains the integrity, depth, and originality expected from a fine art painting. Collectors who commission a work are therefore encouraged to approach the process with trust in the artist’s vision and creative judgement. Rather than reproducing an image exactly as provided, Roy interprets the subject through composition, colour, atmosphere, and narrative structure to create a painting that exists as a complete and independent artwork. This balance between client intention and artistic freedom allows each commission to remain authentic to Roy’s practice while still reflecting the collector’s story, memory, or concept.

Each commissioned painting is treated as a significant artwork within Roy’s studio practice. Upon completion, collectors receive the finished painting along with documentation that records the authenticity and origin of the work. Depending on the nature of the commission, collectors may receive: • the original hand-painted artwork • a Certificate of Authenticity signed by the artist • documentation confirming the title, medium, and date of creation • archival-quality materials used in the creation of the painting • selected studio documentation or process records (for certain commissions) • guidance for installation, display, and long-term care of the artwork For larger commissions or major collector projects, additional documentation or presentation materials may also be prepared to preserve the artistic and historical context of the work. This documentation becomes part of the provenance of the artwork, supporting its long-term value and record within the artist’s body of work.

The timeline for a commissioned painting depends on the scale, complexity, and conceptual development required for the project. Because Roy works on a limited number of commissions at a time, each painting is given dedicated studio focus. Typical timelines may include: • Small to mid-scale paintings: approximately 4–8 weeks • Large-scale paintings: approximately 2–4 months • Major conceptual or large collector commissions: 6–12 months or longer depending on scale Additional time may be required for: • reference photography • preliminary studies • conceptual development • drying time for oil paintings • framing or shipping arrangements Collectors are encouraged to discuss any specific deadlines or exhibition requirements during the initial consultation so that scheduling can be planned accordingly. Because each painting is created individually within Roy’s studio practice, timelines remain flexible to ensure the highest artistic standard.

Roy works with collectors both within Canada and internationally. Once a commissioned painting is completed, the artwork is carefully prepared for safe transport. Paintings are professionally packaged using protective materials suitable for fine art shipping. Depending on the size and destination of the artwork, shipping may be arranged through trusted art handling and courier services. For international collectors, the studio can assist with: • secure international shipping • customs documentation • coordination with professional art shippers when required Shipping costs are calculated based on the size of the artwork, destination, and shipping method. Collectors are also welcome to arrange personal collection or private transport if preferred. For large-scale paintings or major commissions, specialized art shipping solutions may be organized to ensure the artwork arrives safely and in perfect condition.

Framing plays an important role in how a painting is experienced within a space. Depending on the nature of the commission, artworks may be delivered framed or unframed, allowing collectors the flexibility to choose a presentation that best suits their interior environment. Upon request, the studio can arrange professional framing using high-quality archival materials designed to protect and present the artwork appropriately. For collectors commissioning larger paintings or works intended for architectural spaces, framing options may be discussed during the consultation stage to ensure the final presentation complements both the artwork and the surrounding environment. Because each project is unique, framing styles, materials, and costs are determined individually. Collectors may also choose to work with their own local framers if preferred.

When a painting is commissioned for commercial or public-facing use, licensing and usage rights are discussed as part of the project agreement. Unlike private collector commissions, commercial artworks may be reproduced or used across various platforms such as publications, marketing materials, packaging, film media, or digital campaigns. Because of this, the scope of usage is defined in advance. Licensing agreements may consider factors such as: • type of usage (editorial, advertising, publishing, etc.) • geographic distribution • duration of use • reproduction formats (print, digital, packaging, film, etc.) • exclusivity of the artwork In many cases, the original artwork remains the intellectual property of the artist, while the client receives specific rights to use the image for agreed commercial purposes. For larger commercial projects, extended licensing or full usage rights may be arranged depending on the needs of the project. Because each commercial commission is unique, licensing terms and fees are determined individually based on the scale of distribution and intended use. Clients interested in commercial collaborations are encouraged to contact the studio with details about the project so that the appropriate licensing structure can be discussed.